I met Brooklyn and Justin at Smith Lake in Mt. Pleasant today for an engagement shoot, for mid February, it was a beautiful partly sunny and 65 day. Apart from the weather, it was amazing moreover to help capture the love and affection between two people.

Brooklyn and Justin also brought a surprise along with them, their recently adopted puppy and their two horses. It was magical and fun getting to photography these two with their growing animal family.

This past weekend I had the honor to shoot a beautiful wedding at the Ballantyne Hotel in Charlotte. The event took place in the two story atrium with floor to ceiling windows and a magnificent iron spiral staircase. Each step was adorned with candles along with each of the tables, adding a warm and cozy glow to the space. We were able to sneak off into the garden terrace for a few short moment before the guests arrived, even in after the stress of quickly planning the wedding in a short time frame, it was obvious how much these two adored each other. Amy and Dennis make an amazing power couple that is sought after by so many people today, it was a great experience working with them. These photos were taken shortly before sunset with the pond and golf green in the back ground, it was picturesque and sunlit, adding to the romance of the night.

This wasn't just any wedding, however, you see they bride and groom disguised their event as an engagement party. Their guest had no idea that a preacher would be coming toward the end of the night to wed them. There was nothing more charming than seeing the surprise on the faces of their closest friends and family when they realized what they would be witnessing. When Amy descended the stairway in her white dress all eyes were on her. It was so overwhelming and enchanting to be able to capture such a pivotal moment in the lives of this couple; and nothing is more enduring than a bond made before God, and surrounded by all of your friends and family.